ANTERIOR MIGRATION OF INTRAVITREAL FLUOCINOLONE ACETONIDE IMPLANTS: A CASE REPORT.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Ocular Surgery

Background:

• Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a common complication of diabetes.
• Intravitreal steroid implants, such as fluocinolone acetonide (FAc), are used to treat DME.
• Implant migration can occur, posing potential risks to ocular structures.

Observation:

• A case of anterior migration of a FAc implant into the anterior chamber of a patient with DME and prior vitrectomy.
• Initial follow-up showed stable vision, intraocular pressure, and no corneal edema.
• Mild corneal edema developed 36 months post-injection after a second FAc implant.

Findings:

• Anterior migration of FAc implants may result in slower corneal decompensation than other steroid implants.
• Delayed onset of corneal edema is a potential complication of migrating FAc implants.
• The patient experienced mild corneal edema suspected to be related to the implant migration.

Implications:

• Careful monitoring of intraocular pressure and corneal health is crucial for patients with anteriorly migrated FAc implants.
• Ophthalmologists should be aware of the potential for delayed complications even with initially stable outcomes.
• This case highlights the importance of long-term surveillance following intravitreal implant placement.